Washington, D.C. - The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) has announced significant modifications to its Metrobus services due to the winter storm expected to impact the region on January 6, 2023. With forecasts predicting up to ten inches of snow, the transit authority is urging riders to prepare as service levels will change throughout the day.
Starting early Monday morning, WMATA implemented its Severe Snow Plan which involves operating only 42 out of the usual 193 bus routes. General Manager and CEO Randy Clarke, alongside D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, held a briefing on Sunday to discuss the preparations being made to handle the storm.
Clarke noted, "We have about 500 pieces of total equipment, about 85 of which are plows," emphasizing the agency's readiness to tackle snow accumulation across the D.C. metropolitan area. He added, "We'll be really concentrating on our busways, sidewalks, all the areas around our stations where we really move a lot of people." This proactive approach is aimed at ensuring safety and minimal disruption to public transit during adverse weather conditions.
According to WMATA’s plan, the bus service is subject to continual adjustments based on real-time snow accumulation and safety conditions on the roads. While metro trains are expected to maintain close to their regular schedules under six inches of snowfall, any accumulation over eight inches may lead to the suspension of above-ground train services.
The agency indicates it has deployed nearly 600 pieces of snow-removal equipment, including salt and snow-clearing machinery at strategic locations throughout the network. Nine salt domes containing over 300 tons of bulk salt will be utilized to combat slippery roads, ensuring access and safety for riders.
For its part, MetroAccess will also adjust services according to real-time conditions, and riders are advised to only travel if necessary during the snowstorm. Clarke explained, "We encourage customers to only travel during the storm if necessary," reflecting the agency's cautious approach to public safety.
Despite the storm's potential severity, WMATA has assured riders there are no current disruptions to Metrorail services, yet some reduced service is to be expected as conditions evolve. Riders can stay updated by visiting WMATA's website or subscribing to MetroAlerts for timely notifications.
The D.C. region is preparing for what could be one of the season's first significant snow events, and WMATA emphasizes the importance of being informed and prepared. Riders are advised to check the status of routes and any changes the agency may implement as weather conditions develop.
With safety being the top priority, Clarke reiterated, "Customers should prepare for Metrorail, Metrobus, & Metro Access services to be reduced if conditions deteriorate." The call for riders to remain vigilant about travel plans reflects the agency’s commitment to public safety amid unpredictable winter weather.
Overall, WMATA’s measures exemplify proactive crisis management, keeping the public informed and ensuring resources are allocated effectively during challenging weather conditions. Riders are urged to hearken to safety recommendations as they navigate the potential disruption caused by the incoming snowstorm.